Mike Austerman: February 2006 Archives

* On Monday January 30th, NextMedia dropped the dance format from WTBT-FM 100.5 Carrollton/Saginaw and moved to a News-Talk format as WSGW-FM- not to be confused with WSGW AM 790. There were several other related personnel changes within the NextMedia cluster because of this move: Morning host and program director Jerry O'Donnell has left Adult Contemporary WGER-FM 106.3 and O'Donell's co-host, Michelle Langley, loses morning duties but stays on for middays at WGER. The WTBT morning show featuring Big and Burns has moved to WGER for mornings with WTBT program director Tommy Frank getting the PD role at WGER as well. WGER afternoon drive host Bill Anders moves to WSGW.

* WOAP AM 1080 Owosso has dropped all of its secular music (adult standards and oldies) and is now offering a full-time religious format with Catholic based programming from owner Michigan Catholic Radio.

* The FCC has granted Dean M. Mosely a construction permit for a new LPTV station to be licensed to Alpena on channel 26 as W26DF.

* WJRT-TV 12 Flint has succeeded in its petition with the FCC to have cable companies Comcast and Charter in Flint block programming seen on Detroit's WXYZ-TV 7 when it is the same as what is airing on WJRT.

Jason Jennings, author of “Think BIG-Act Small,” will deliver the keynote address at the Michigan Association of Broadcasters' (MAB) annual Great Lakes Broadcasting Conference & Expo (GLBC), which will be held March 13 and 14 at the Lansing Center in downtown Lansing. Jennings will deliver his speech titled “The Five Leadership Secrets of the World's Best Performing Companies,” at 8:30 a.m. on Tuesday March 14.

Jennings was founder of Jennings-McGlothlin & Company, the nation's largest media consulting company. His unique and legendary programming, sales and management strategies are credited with revolutionizing many parts of the broadcast industry, and hundreds of thousands of companies around the world use his training programs on sales, customer satisfaction and leadership.

GLBC is the annual convention for Michigan's broadcast industry. More than 1,000 broadcasters and related industry professionals from across the state will attend the event that covers a broad range of industry related issues. Conference highlights include:

• The annual Broadcast Excellence Awards Presentation, which recognizes outstanding news and programming and public service performances by Michigan radio and television stations
• The MAB Foundation Career Fair, at which broadcasters will meet with and offer advice to students seeking positions in the industry
• The MAB Foundation's Michigan High Schools & College Broadcast Awards
• A luncheon speech on March 14 by Ron Bachman, whose life was featured in a documentary titled “Walk This Way.” Bachman, whose legs were amputated when he was four years old, has worked as a broadcaster in Michigan, and will speak on diversity issues, relationship building, disability concerns for the able-bodied, bullying in the workplace and related issues.

The Michigan Association of Broadcasters represents more than 300 radio and television stations, serving nearly 4,000 individuals employees in the broadcasting industry. MAB is one of the largest broadcast associations in the nation and offers educational, informational, and cost-saving services to its members. The MAB is dedicated to helping its members serve their communities, advertisers and staff by providing solutions to industry problems and satisfying members' needs.

Jim Cramer, host of CNBC's “Mad Money” and markets commentator for TheStreet.com, will bring his one-hour radio show, Jim Cramer's Real Money, to eight CBS Radio stations across the country, including WKRK-FM 97.1 Detroit, beginning February 13th. The one-hour weekday program will be broadcast live from 1-2 PM Eastern- right in the middle of the 11 AM - 3 PM timeslot currenly occupied by Jay Towers and Michelle McKormick (Motor City Middays) on WKRK.

CBS Radio Chairman and CEO Joel Hollander announced that Cramer's program will also debut on WFNY-FM (New York), KNX-AM (Los Angeles), WCKG-FM (Chicago), KIKK-AM (Houston), WHFS-FM (Baltimore), KDKA-AM (Pittsburgh), and KCMD-AM (Portland). The consumer-based show will focus on how to save and invest wisely in the market, as well as examine companies large and small to assess their investment potential. Listeners will be able to interact with Cramer on-air throughout the program. David Hall, Vice President of Programming of CBS Radio's KNX-AM and KFWB-AM in Los Angeles, will serve as Executive Producer. Hall previously served as the Executive Producer of Cramer's nationally syndicated radio show when it first debuted. Additionally, Westwood One will exclusively distribute the program to all non-CBS Radio stations nationwide.

“Jim Cramer is one of if not ‘the' most entertaining financial expert in the business,” said Hollander. “His is a personality that combines wit, wisdom and unreserved enthusiasm. Couple that with some of the best advice ever heard on the radio and we have what will no doubt be one of the most talked about shows on the dial.”

“We have brought dozens of high profile on-air talent to CBS Radio in the past several months consistently enhancing the lineups on our talk and music stations,” said Rob Barnett, President of Programming, CBS Radio. “It's an honor to have him join our already outstanding roster.”

Added Cramer, “I look forward to working with CBS Radio and welcome the opportunity to do a live show during market hours where I can give my perspective on the market as it unfolds.

Detroit News:

The steady murmur coming from the bowels of the Renaissance Center on Monday could mean just one thing: The media has arrived. Thousands of reporters from around the nation are descending upon Detroit to cover the Super Bowl. Ground zero was the bottom of the Wintergarden atrium, where dozens of radio and television stations began a week's worth of broadcasts Monday. In a few days, the atrium promises to turn into a wall of sound with a smash-mouth melody as sports talk shows wrestle with each other and callers over minutia surrounding the game. The circus atmosphere will get a boost during Media Day today as players from both teams are asked the same questions dozens of times by a horde of reporters who, last year, included a puppet, B-list celebrities and a man dressed as the Joker... Sports' greatest gabfest fills RenCen air (Tue 1/31)

In between the commercials, ABC is airing a football game Sunday evening. And while the Steelers and Seahawks have just two weeks to prepare for Super Bowl XL, crews from ABC Sports have spent nearly a year planning every aspect of the country's most elaborate, splashy annual television event. "This is America's biggest show, and the whole world watches," said Fred Gaudelli, producer of ABC's Super Bowl broadcast. "You're starting with the largest audience imaginable." So ABC has assembled one of the largest remote broadcast operations imaginable to pull it off. The network has brought more than 400 people to Detroit for the Super Bowl, compared to about 120 for a regular-season "Monday Night Football" game... ABC assembles army of techies to broadcast Big Game (Tue 1/31)

The parent company of sports radio station WDFN-AM (1130) has settled a federal age discrimination lawsuit brought by a 48-year-old applicant who was passed over in favor of a younger, less-experienced producer. Clear Channel Broadcasting settled the suit for an undisclosed sum -- and U.S. District Judge Gerald E. Rosen agreed to dismiss the suit Jan. 18, court records show. "The parties have resolved their dispute. It's not going to change anything about the station's operations," Maurice Jenkins, a Detroit lawyer for the company, said Friday... WDFN parent company settles with rejected applicant (Wed 2/1)

Detroit Free Press:

The Wild Man of Wall Street Radio, Jim Cramer, is crossing the border and going live starting Feb. 13. Detroit's WKRK-FM (97.1, Live Talk) will air his raucous, from-the-lip and from-the-hip Wall Street show "Real Money" live from 1-2 p.m. weekdays... WKRK gets Cramer (Wed 2/1)

ABC's “Jimmy Kimmel Show” officials were in meetings with Comcast and ABC corporate interests Wednesday afternoon trying to figure out a way to avoid an audience snafu that marred the show's Detroit debut Tuesday night. Possible options? A nearby auxiliary viewing facility. Prize handouts for those who can't get in. A chance to meet with Kimmel and other guests outside the actual broadcast setting. Even a second nightly performance — expensive due to broadcast union requirements... 'Kimmel' ratings soar; ticket crisis looms tonight (Wed 2/1)

Seattle Post-Intelligencer:

Chris Visser was here two decades ago when this bit of zaniness started. He watched it grow. He and a handful of other visionaries cupped their hands around it and nurtured its spark to a flame... Want Super Bowl frenzy? Try Radio Row (Tue 1/31)

Radio and Records:

Former WKQI/Detroit night guy Tic Tak and his Freak Show land in afternoons at WKSC/Chicago. No lives were lost, as the airstaff compresses their shifts to accommodate his arrival. (Tue 1/31)

CC/Detroit's Dave Pugh Transitions to D.C. as RVP: ALL ACCESS has learned the CLEAR CHANNEL RVP/MICHIGAN DAVE PUGH is headed to CLEAR CHANNEL/D.C. as RVP/WASHINGTON Region. Look for an official announcement, soon. No word on his replacement, yet.

Zonjic honored with two nominations, named host Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards

WVMV-FM 98.7 morning host and jazz flutist Alexander Zonjic has been nominated for two Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards and will reprise his role as host of the second annual competition to be held April 7 in Mississauga, Ontario at the Living Arts Centre near Toronto. Zonjic's nominations are for Best Wind Instrumentalist and for Broadcaster of the Year. Winners will be determined through on-line voting and by a panel of industry professionals. To vote, fans should visit www.canadiansmoothjazzawards.com. Voting is now open to an international audience.

Zonjic was raised and still lives in Windsor, Ontario. He performs in 100 concerts a year, is creative director for five summer music festivals and is part owner of the jazz supper club Seldom Blues. “It was a pleasure kicking off last year's inaugural ceremony and I am excited to be asked back to host this year's event,” said Zonjic.

Flint Journal:

While most of the world's media is hunkered down for Super Bowl XL at the media center in the General Motors Renaissance Center and Ford Field, Flint's WJRT (Channel 12) is holed up nearby at the Hotel Pontchartrain. The station, which is owned and operated by the network broadcasting Sunday's game, has been broadcasting its 4, 5, 6... Local TV and radio broadcasting from Detroit (Fri 2/3)

Bender named Market Manager of the Year at Radio Wayne Awards

Greater Media, Inc. has announced Senior Vice President/Regional General Manager Tom Bender has been named “Market Manager of the Year” at the 2006 Radio Wayne Awards. The honor was announced during a special breakfast hosted by the Radio Advertising Bureau at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Dallas, Texas on Friday, February 3rd, 2006. “We are very proud of Tom's outstanding accomplishments. His passion, dedication, leadership and vision have made Greater Media's Detroit-based operation the outstanding organization it is today,” said Peter Smyth, President and CEO of Greater Media, Inc.

Bender joined Greater Media in November 1986. He was promoted to the position of Vice President in 1988 and Senior Vice President in 1994.
“It is truly a privilege to be chosen to receive this special award. I would like to thank Peter Smyth, John Bordes and the entire Greater Media Detroit family for giving me the opportunity to receive this special honor,” said Bender.

The Awards were founded in 1992 by Radio Ink Magazine to recognize those outstanding salespeople, managers, and broadcasters who personify the best in Radio. The awards were named in honor of the late “Radio” Wayne Cornils who served as the Executive Vice President of the Radio Advertising Bureau and the Senior VP/Radio at the National Association of Broadcasters. Cornils spent his entire career promoting the radio industry's inherent values to broadcasters, advertisers, and listeners.

Greater Media, Incorporated is the parent company of 19 AM and FM radio stations located in the Boston, Detroit, Philadelphia and New Jersey markets. In addition, it owns a modern printing plant and a group of weekly newspapers in central New Jersey; as well as several telecommunications towers throughout the United States.

It’s been quite the week in the media world with nonstop coverage of Super Bowl XL and all the events leading up to it. While dialing around this week, I was disappointed to hear a couple segments that just made me cringe. Tuesday on sports WXYT-AM (1270), “Big Show” hosts Art Regner and Doug Karsch were interviewing ESPN reporter Suzy Kolber. What was a decent interview quickly went into the land of embarrassing, when the topic of the infamous Joe Namath kiss request from two years ago was brought up by Regner. With Kolber taking the high road by essentially dismissing it, the “Big Show” folks went ahead and played back audio clips of the event, accompanied by hosts laughing at their own attempt at humor. As a listener, I was embarrassed at the bush-league treatment they were giving Kolber. There was nothing at all funny about how the ’XYT hosts handled that interview.

Then on Wednesday, hosts Jeff Deminski and Bill Doyle of talk WKRK-FM (97.1) played an absolutely horrible clip that’s floating around the Internet that ridicules Detroit and Pittsburgh running back Jerome Bettis. There was no comedic value in the segment and it had no business being played on a major market radio station. In a town that is hyper-sensitive about its image, why do these members of the media insist on adding fuel to the fire?

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If you ever doubted that radio programmers have less and less control over their own stations, here’s proof enough. WKRK owner CBS Radio has announced that Jim Cramer, host of the syndicated financial program “Real Money,” will begin airing on a number of the company’s stations across the country beginning Feb. 13. The show will run 1-2 p.m. on WKRK — right smack in the middle of Jay Towers and Michelle McKormick’s “Motor City Middays” program, which is currently airing 11 a.m.-3 p.m. How’d you like to be WKRK boss Rich Homberg? Does he run MCM on a split schedule or move Penn Jillette to the 2-3 p.m. hour — where he’d air live — from his tapedelayed spot at 10 p.m.? Although Cramer’s show is a bit edgy when it comes to money-talk shows, it hardly fits with the rest of WKRK’s weekday lineup. Radio is a strange business indeed.

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Classic rock WCSX-FM (94.7) continues its great work for the Children’s Leukemia Foundation of Michigan, raising more than $210,000 during last weekend’s 28-hour radiothon, hosted by morning voices Jim Johnson and Lynne Woodison. The gang at ’CSX has now raised more than $2.7 million for CLF over the years and will continue their efforts by restoring another vehicle this spring and summer in another Stone Soup project. WCSX.com has details on the selection of a new project car.

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Country WYCD-FM (99.5) is helping host a fund-raising event with country superstar Clint Black at the Melting Pot restaurant in Troy on Thursday. The “Clint Black Tie Affair” will raise money to support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and its fight against childhood cancers. “Each year, WYCD raises funds for the hospital, and this year we’ve added a new exciting and fun event to help the kids,” says program director Tim Roberts. “Clint Black is a huge artist and he’s been very generous to devote an evening to helping these kids,” adds WYCD morning host Doctor Don Carpenter. Tickets are $100 per plate through WYCD, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays at 26555 Evergreen, Ste. 675, Southfield.

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Rocker WRIF-FM (101.1) will help out one of its own Feb. 16 with a concert at the Emerald Ballroom in downtown Mount Clemens to benefit former sports WDFN-FM (1130) reporter Sabrina Black. Sabrina, the wife of ’RIF weekend jock Steve Black, was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s disease in 2000, and since then has been fighting the disease with two bone marrow transplants and numerous chemo and radiation treatments. She continues to fight an unfair amount of complications but, remarkably, hasn’t given up hope. In addition to a rockin’ lineup of local bands and ’RIF’s Doug Podell as host, there’ll be a silent auction with rock and sports memorabilia. Arthur Penhallow will broadcast live from Johnny G’s restaurant next door from 3 to 7 p.m., and evening jock Meltdown will host his 7 p.m.-midnight show from the Emerald that night. Doors open at 7 p.m. Admission is $10 with all proceeds benefiting the Sabrina Black Fund. Visit www.wrif.com.

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Check out Glenn Haege of WDFN’s “The Handyman Show” and dozens of household helpers at the Ultimate Home Show next weekend at the Ford Community and Performing Arts Center in Dearborn. Haege will broadcast his weekend shows live from the event. Admission is free. Find details at www.wdfn.com.

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Set Your Dials: For an alternative to the Big Game, tune into WRCJ-FM (90.9) from 10 a.m. to noon today for Chris Felcyn’s “Listening Room Symphony Bowl Preview Show and Tailgate Party” ... Girl groups from the 1940s and ’50s are featured on this evening’s “Somewhere in Time” with hosts Tom Wilson and Alison Harris. Tune in at 6 p.m. on WMUZ-FM (103.5) ... Ralph Valdez welcomes self-described “gender-terrorist” Stephanie Loveless (formerly Tom Ness) and her wife of 20 years, Susan Trescott, to his program 10 p.m. tonight on WDET-FM (101.9).

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Columnist Mike Austerman has covered radio for The Oakland Press since 2001.

They are rappers with a style that is in your face and raw. Their lyrics are powerful, emphatic and real -- with no swear words. With talents that are extreme and diverse, they tell the stories of their lives. Some are dental assistants, students and painters. Others have been released from prison and carry deep angst into their music. Their passion is rap and hip-hop music -- their outlet for creativity and opportunity is courtesy of radio station WMFN-AM. Every Saturday night, from 6 to midnight, 640-AM keeps it local and live during "Grand Rapids Own" -- featuring the best in local rap recording artists... Station showcases local rappers (Fri 2/3)

A tradition was coined unintentionally during WYCE's first Jammie Awards ceremony in 2000. "People just showed up in their jammies," said WYCE-FM (88.1) station manager Michael Packer, speculating the name of the awards led listeners to believe they were attending a pajama party. "We said, hey, that's a cool thing." Now, it's standard for pajama-clad fans to attend the best-in-local-music ceremony, where they are rewarded for their spirit... Bands prepare for annual awards show (Sun 2/5)

Muskegon Chronicle:

Long-time Muskegon radio personality William D. "Bill" Uecker died of an apparent heart attack on Friday. "He was just a lovable, teddy bear of a guy," said retired area radio executive Fred Tascone. Tim Achterhoff, once head of WMUS, added that Uecker was, "just a decent guy"... Muskegon radio host dies (Sun 2/5)

* In a $2.7 billion deal announced today, 22 ABC Radio stations and the ABC Radio Networks will be combined with Citadel Broadcasting to create a group that will own 243 radio stations in over 50 markets. The newly combined company, to be named Citadel Communications, will be led by current Citadel CEO Farid Suleman. Through a 10-year licensing agreement, Citadel will deliver ABC News radio programming, but ABC parent Disney will continue to distribute ABC News content in other formats such as broadband, wireless and satellite. ESPN Radio and Radio Disney are not included in the deal. Citadel, ABC announce merger (Mon 2/6)

* Citadel Purchases Most Of ABC/Disney's Radio Assets: The WALT DISNEY CO. and CITADEL BROADCASTING have approved a definitive agreement to combine ABC RADIO -- which includes 22 radio stations and the ABC RADIO NETWORKS -- with CITADEL BROADCASTING. The newly-combined company, to be named CITADEL COMMUNICATIONS, will be the third largest radio group in the U.S. "Our ABC RADIO business represents a premier set of assets that have been exceptionally well-managed. ABC RADIO and CITADEL are a strong strategic fit that will create one of the country's largest radio station groups," said DISNEY CO. Pres. and CEO ROBERT IGER. "With this merger we have a unique opportunity to offer DISNEY shareholders ownership in a new radio leader that will be well positioned for long-term success."

CITADEL CEO FARID SULEMAN will be CEO and lead the management team of the new company. "By joining forces to form CITADEL COMMUNICATIONS, our new company can continue to deliver on CITADEL's impressive record of success as well as pursue many exciting growth initiatives in the future," said SULEMAN. "We look forward to welcoming our talented new colleagues at ABC RADIO who have a long history of strong market performance, and are eager to work together to integrate ABC's top-notch assets into our new strategically enhanced radio group."

As mentioned, the merger includes the ABC RADIO NETWORKS, which create and distribute programming to more than 4,000 affiliates. The programming includes syndicated radio programs such as PAUL HARVEY NEWS AND COMMENT, THE SEAN HANNITY SHOW, and THE TOM JOYNER MORNING SHOW, as well as 24/7 music formats. Additionally, through an exclusive 10-year licensing agreement, CITADEL COMMUNICATIONS will deliver ABC NEWS RADIO programming to terrestrial radio stations. DISNEY will continue to retain rights to deliver ABC News content in other formats such as broadband, wireless and satellite.

After the transaction, CITADEL COMMUNICATIONS will be comprised of 177 FM stations and 66 AM stations, in addition to the ABC RADIO NETWORKS. As part of the transaction, 14 FM and 8 AM ABC radio stations in nine major markets, including NEW YORK, LOS ANGELES, CHICAGO, SAN FRANCISCO and DALLAS, will join CITADEL COMMUNICATIONS. ESPN RADIO and RADIO DISNEY are not included in the transaction.

Following the completion of the merger, DISNEY shareholders will own approximately 52% of CITADEL COMMUNICATIONS, and DISNEY will retain $1.4 to $1.65 billion in cash depending on the market price of CITADEL BROADCASTING at the time of closing. CITADEL shareholders will own the remaining 48% of the combined company. Valued at approximately $2.7 billion, the deal is expected to be completed by the end of the year, subject to regulatory approvals. All Access.com (Mon 2/6)

Magic 105.1 (WMGC-FM), home of Jim Harper & The Magic Morning Show, is kicking off the 5th Annual “Women Who Make Magic®” Awards. Magic 105.1, along with Kroger, Health Alliance Plan (HAP) and Wright & Filippis, is proud to accept nominations for “Women Who Make Magic®.” Do you know a woman who has made some magic in your world? Please send your nominating stories to:

Women Who Make Magic®
Magic 105.1FM
One Radio Plaza
Detroit, MI 48220

You can also e-mail your nomination to: women@detroitmagic.com. Please include a photo of your “Magical” nominee!

Every Friday morning through May, Jim Harper & The Magic Morning Show will recognize two amazing “Women Who Make Magic.” Each nominee will receive two tickets to attend the Women Who Make Magic® Awards Banquet at the Andiamo Celebrity Showroom in Warren and a $50 Kroger gift card. The 5th Annual Women Who Make Magic Awards Banquet and Dinner will be held on Thursday, June 12th at the Andiamo Celebrity Showroom on 14 Mile in Warren. More details, including ticket information, will be announced in the coming weeks.

The latest installment of FSN Detroit's Spotlight profiles Detroit Red Wings defenseman, U.S. Olympic team captain and future Hall of Famer Chris Chelios. Spotlight: Chris Chelios airs Sunday, February 12 at 10:00 PM (or immediately after ACC basketball) and is repeated Monday, January 13 at 7:00 & 10:00 PM. The episode is narrated by FSN's Red Wings analyst Mickey Redmond. Spotlight is a series of original half-hour programs profiling some of the region's prominent sports personalities. Each episode combines the perspectives of the person profiled along with fresh and historical footage to tell the story.

From humble beginnings to success at every stop – NCAA champion, Olympic medalist and captain, Norris Trophy winner, Stanley Cup champion – Chelios is arguably the best American-born player ever. Spotlight examines how Chelios acquired his signature toughness and beat the odds to reach his hockey dreams. The show also addresses how Chelios, once an arch villain to Red Wings fans, made the transformation to becoming an entrenched Detroiter, where he is raising his family and operating as a successful restaurateur. In addition to Chelios, others appearing in the episode include Detroit teammate Niklas Lidstrom and Red Wings general manager Ken Holland.

Big Boy In Da Hizzouse At WKQI: CLEAR CHANNEL/MICHIGAN Regional VP/Programming DOM THEODORE has announced the arrival of "BIG BOY" as the new night show on WKQI (CHANNEL 955)/DETROIT effective immediately. BIG BOY, which seems like a nom de aire, is inbound from FLINN Top 40 WHBQ/MEMPHIS, where he did nights. (Mon 2/6)

'JR to broadcast from Chicago Auto Show

Morning host Paul W. Smith will broadcast his 6-9 AM morning show
live from the 2006 Chicago Auto Show at the McCormick Place.

Two-day fundraiser for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital February 9th & 10th

On Thursday & Friday, February 9th and 10th, 99.5 WYCD will broadcast their sixth annual Radiothon to benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. This year's event will once again take place at Oakland Mall's Center Court, from 5am-7pm each day. In 2005, WYCD raised $510,529. To pledge donations during the Radiothon, call (800) 832-9393 or log on to wycd.com to make an online donation. This year's event will also feature two country artists to help answer the phones. Clint Black will join Edwards & Lee on Thursday, February 9th at 5pm and Hal Ketchum will be talking to Dr. Don on-site on Friday, February 10th at 9am.

Country radio became involved on a nationwide basis in 1989 – Randy Owen of the group Alabama was the driving force. Now, hundreds of musicians support St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. St. Jude is the premiere facility for research in childhood catastrophic illnesses. 99.5 WYCD benefits from that involvement with donated items such as concert tickets, autographed guitars, a private concert from Josh Turner, and much more. All of these items and more will be given away over the course of the Radiothon as pledge incentives.

Listeners will have the opportunity to hear first hand how St. Jude helps local families. Patients as well as their families will be on-air and on-site to tell their story of how St. Jude is helping or has helped them.

The station is asking listeners to help show the world how big the Motor City's heart is by joining them February 9th and 10th from Oakland Mall for the 99.5 WYCD Country Cares For Kids Radiothon to benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

* Citadel and Disney/ABC reached a $2.7 billion deal to transfer 22 ABC radio stations across the country to the control of Citadel Communications, pending government approvals and closing. Detroit stations WJR AM 760, WDRQ FM 93.1, and WDVD FM 96.3 are involved in the transaction.

* Midwestern Broadcasting has agreed to purchase Public WVXA-FM 96.7 Rogers City (and its translator at FM 95.3 Mackinaw City) from Cincinnati Classical Public Radio for $411,000 pending FCC approval and closing. Midwestern, owner of 9 Northern Michigan stations including Country WATZ-FM Alpena, will donate the translator to the Interlochen Center for the Arts upon completion of the deal and has applied to change the status of WVXA from noncommercial to commercial. Cincinnati Public Classical Radio also owns WVXM-FM 97.7 Manistee and WVXH-FM 92.1 Harrison.

Detroit radio stations news-talk WJR-AM (760), we-play-everything WDRQ-FM (93.1) and modern hits WDVD-FM (96.3) will move from the Disney Co.'s ABC Radio Network to a renamed Citadel Communications in a $2.7-billion deal long rumored and finally announced Monday. Citadel already owns 17 stations in Saginaw, Flint, Lansing and Grand Rapids. All three stations are expected to continue with their current formats -- WJR was tied for the top spot among listeners age 12 and over and will become the flagship for Michigan State University sports starting this fall -- as the deal is finalized. Officials from the Detroit stations and air personalities declined to comment; corporate executives were unavailable Monday... Citadel to get 3 ABC radio stations (Tue 2/7)

To be honored: Five Michigan TV veterans at the Michigan Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences 19th Annual Silver Circle Awards Luncheon, set for noon Feb. 26 at the Townsend Hotel in Birmingham. Those to be feted are: Frank Biondo, a 35-year veteran sound mixer for WTVS-TV (Channel 56); Steve Garagiola, WDIV-TV (Channel 4) anchor and reporter; James Gaver, program director at WFUM-TV in Flint; Lee Van Ameyde, co-news anchor at WZZM-TV in Grand Rapids and Fran Victor, one of the creators of "Good Afternoon Detroit" on WXYZ-TV (Channel 7) back in the 1980s... Names and Faces (Fri 2/10)

Detroit News:

"ABC World News Tonight" anchor Bob Woodruff, who grew up in Bloomfield Township, is still sedated but is making progress from injuries he suffered from a bomb attack while covering the Iraq war last month. Woodruff, 44, and his cameraman, Doug Vogt, 46, were wounded Jan. 29 when a roadside bomb exploded near the vehicle they were traveling in near Taji, 12 miles north of Baghdad. Woodruff suffered injuries to his upper body, face, neck and shoulder... News anchor Bob Woodruff continues healing (Wed 2/7)

The long-awaited ownership change for ABC/Disney's 22 top-drawer radio stations, including Detroit's WJR-AM (760), went through earlier this week, pending FCC approval of course, as current owner ABC/Disney merged with Citadel Broadcasting to form a new company, Citadel Communications . It's a complicated deal involving stock and cash, and, to confuse you even further, essentially the company is still majority-owned by Disney shareholders. Many of the stations involved are flamethrower, historic AM stations such as WJR, including WLS-AM Chicago, WABC-AM New York and KGO-AM San Francisco. Locally, WDVD-FM (96.3) and Doug FM, WDRQ-FM (93.1), are also part of the deal... New co-owners for Great Voice of the Great Lakes (Thu 2/9)

Torino, Italy, is approximately 4,200 miles from Detroit, but WDIV-TV (Local 4) is doing its best to bring the Olympics home. Local 4 begins its coverage of the Winter Games today with live broadcasts throughout the day from Campus Martius Park in downtown Detroit. The coverage begins early with Local 4 News Today (5-7 a.m.). Guy Gordon and traffic reporter Beth McLeod will be joined by three-time Olympic figure skater Todd Eldredge and members of the Detroit Skating Club. The station also will broadcast its noon and evening broadcasts from Campus Martius, site of last weekend's Motown Winter Blast. Local 4 will continue to broadcast many of its Olympic Zone specials (Monday-Saturday, 7:30-8 p.m.) from Campus Martius through Feb. 26... From Campus Martius, Local 4 will enhance Olympic coverage (Fri 2/10)

The Uncommon Sense:

Last year, an institution that was part of the Flint area for eighty-three years, broadened its reach and shifted its target audience toward Detroit. Flint's first radio station, WFDF, now better known as Radio Disney broadcasting on the AM dial at 910 kHz, moved its transmitting facilities from its long time Burton location at the corner of Bristol and Howe, to newer larger transmitting facilities near Carleton in Monroe County, southwest of Detroit. While the station has applied to change its city of license from Flint to the Detroit suburb of Farmington Hills, the legal station ID at the top of the hour is still “WFDF, Flint/Detroit”... Goodbye, WFDF (Feb 2006)

Rover's Screener Draws FBI Scrutiny: The FBI was called out when CBS syndicated morning man ROVER's phone screener DJ JAZZY JIM said he wouldn't be going to DETROIT for the SUPER BOWL with the rest of the show's crew because he was afraid of a terrorist attack. The comment caught the ear of the FBI's SUPER BOWL operations team, which sent agents to ROVER's WCKG/CHICAGO studio to talk to JIM. After a 90 minute interrogationm, the agents concluded that JIM had no actual knowledge of any attack; nevertheless, JIM did not goto DETROIT for the game.

After months of anticipation, the huge deal between Disney/ABC Radio and Citadel Broadcasting has become a reality. Worth a cool $2.7 billion, the deal is the biggest in broadcast history. So what does this mean for local listeners? Locally, ABC owns four stations — news-talk WJR-AM (760), Radio Disney WFDF-AM (910), adult hits WDRQ-FM (93.1) and pop hits WDVD-FM (96.3). The sale includes three of these, but not the Disney outlets, as Disney/ABC is keeping those and ESPN Radio. Locally, we don’t have an ESPN outlet, although some ESPN programming is featured on sports WDFN-AM (1130).

What type of changes can listeners expect? Nothing immediately, but you can bet some will be made after the new company takes over, though they’re not known for wholesale house-cleaning. It will take most of this year to complete the transaction, which will make Las Vegas-based Citadel the third-largest radio owner in America behind Clear Channel and CBS. Currently, Citadel owns AM and FM stations primarily in small and medium markets; the largest till now has been Providence, R.I. In Michigan, Citadel owns stations in Grand Rapids, Flint, Saginaw and Lansing.

The Lansing stations were purchased a few years ago from metro Detroiter Bob Liggett, who owns a group of stations in Port Huron. Once a DJ at WJBK-AM (1500) in the early 1960s under the name Bob Layne, Liggett also owns the Big Boy Restaurant chain.

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Speaking of Big Boy, it’s no longer just a fine family restaurant — it’s also the name of the new guy in town at hits WKQI-FM (95.5), from 7-11 p.m. weeknights. He replaces Tic-Tac, who segued to sister station WKSC-FM in Chicago. Big Boy comes up to Detroit from Memphis; program manager Dom Theodore says he’s been a fan for years. “I first found Big Boy while looking for jocks for other (Clear Channel) markets and I set his (audition) tape aside. I held on to it for a year and a half, just waiting for the right opportunity; how funny it is that the opportunity turned out to be right here.” Welcome to Motown, Big Boy.

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Last week, I picked up a new Boston Acoustics HD Radio, enabling me to hear for myself the new high definition radio that’s been in the news so much of late. So far, the technical quality of the stations is superb, but, as noted here a couple of weeks ago, the formats leave much to be desired. For instance, why does oldies WOMC-FM’s (104.3) HD offering (WOMC-FM-2) play the same basic oldies as FM-1? Why not offer the 1955-64 pre-Beatles tunes so rarely heard on the original station?

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Quick hits: Mark your calendar for Feb. 24, the date of the 19th annual Dick Purtan Salvation Army Radiothon live from Oakland Mall ... soft rock WMGC-FM (105.1) is taking nominations for its fifth annual “Women Who Make Magic” Awards through May. Send the name, address and phone of a deserving woman to: Women Who Make Magic c/o WMGC, 1 Radio Plaza, Detroit 48220; or e-mail your nomination to women@detroitmagic.com ... HD radio fan and WMGC senior VP Tom Bender has been named Market Manager of the Year at the 2006 Radio Wayne Awards at the Radio Advertising Bureau’s recent Dallas conference ... National Public Radio has named former newspaper guy Bill Marimow as its new VP of news ... Kudos to country WYCD-FM (99.5) on last week’s Country Cares for Kids Radiothon to benefit St. Jude’s Research Hospital. Last year, they raised more than a half-million dollars. Fellow radio writer Mike Austerman will have the final tally next week ... Final Super Bowl note: On classical WRCJ-FM (90.9), host Chris Felcyn pitted Pittsburgh’s symphony against Seattle’s in his “Symphony Bowl” show on Super Bowl morning — and the Pittsburgh Symphony won. The tongue-in-cheek show caught the attention of national media, including the Seattle Times and Sports Illustrated’s Paul Zimmerman.

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Set Your Dials: Music by swing-era crooners will be an early Valentine’s gift from host Tom Wilson on WMUZFM (103.5) at 6 tonight ... in other romantic news, between 10 p.m.-midnight tonight, WDET-FM (101.9) host Ralph Valdez interviews music legend Burt Bacharach plus HOUR Detroit’s George Bulanda on his “10 Seductive CDs”.

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Art Vuolo has published the Radio Guide for more than 30 years and runs Vuolovideo.com.

Country music remains on top for West Michigan radio fans. According to recent Arbitron ratings, WBCT-FM (93.7) took another first-place win -- marking its 33rd consecutive top ranking for the station. It makes morning co-host Neal Dionne a happy man. "We never take it for granted. We love our listeners, and I'm not just saying that. They are in on every bit and are a big part of our show. Sometimes, they just call to say, 'Good Moynin.' We have so much fun everyday. I can't believe we get paid for this," he said. The Arbitron ratings fall book reflect another West Michigan sweep for Clear Channel Radio. In the Grand Rapids metro market, for listeners 12 and older, B-93 is first, with a 9.5 rating, WOOD-AM (1300) is second, scoring a 7.8 rating and WSNX-FM (104.5) is third, with a 7.6 rating... B-93 remains market leader in ratings (Mon 2/6)

Grammys? What Grammys? Who needs Mariah Carey, Diddy and U2 when you've got Organissimo, Sweet Japonic and Paucity? Who needs a tuxedo when you've got pajamas? The Jammie Awards, WYCE-FM's (88.1) annual show honoring the best in local and national music, didn't attempt the silly pageantry of the Grammy Awards (taking place tonight, incidentally), but Tuesday night's ceremony did offer plenty of live music, some friendly competition and a whole lotta love for a whole lotta local musicians... Jazz trio lands top Jammie (Wed 2/8)

Detroit's 99.5 WYCD ended a two-day Radiothon this weekend by raising $802,812 for cancer research for the ALSAC St. Jude's Children's Hospital. The two-day Radiothon was hosted live at Metro Detroit's Oakland Mall and featured live memorable segments with Clint Black and Hal Ketchum, as well as a WYCD auction featuring Gretchen Wilson and Kenny Chesney autographed guitars and a “living room concert” with Josh Turner. “I'm absolutely thrilled with the WYCD listeners response”, said WYCD Program Director Tim Roberts. “You can see how much people in Detroit truly care, when they pour out their hearts for children like they have in the last few days”. “We really began this year's event very strong with the All New Dr. Don Show and finished even stronger with Edwards and Lee in the afternoon and the whole WYCD team in the final two hours including Mike Scott and Jyl Forsyth” added Roberts.

This year's WYCD event also featured a unique side event with Clint Black called the Clint Black Tie Affair at the Melting Pot in Troy. “WYCD teamed with a national St. Jude restaurant sponsor The Melting Pot in Troy for a $100 per plate exclusive dining and concert experience. Clint Black was extremely generous with his time and gave his Detroit fans a special, intimate acoustic performance. “It was an awesome and inspiring event”, stated ALSAC St. Jude Detroit Rep Beth Campbell. “WYCD's air staff really reached a new level with this year's St. Jude Radiothon, raising $300,000 more than the previous year.”

Detroit Free Press:

A former country radio DJ who won a $10.6-million jury verdict last year in a lawsuit resulting from alleged job discrimination and a perfume allergy, only to see it reduced to $814,000 in December by the trial judge, got some of the judgment restored Tuesday. At the behest of Erin Weber's lawyer, U.S. District Judge George Steeh increased damages to $1.2 million and awarded Weber $423,807 for attorney fees and court costs. She has 14 days to accept the award, or Steeh will grant Infinity Broadcasting Corp.'s request for a new trial... Judge adds to cash for ex-DJ in perfume suit (Wed 2/8)

Friday was the last day on WWJ-AM (950) for ex-TV newscaster, media producer and Free Press columnist Mort Crim. He recently changed broadcast syndicators. Crim noted in an e-mail that CBS-owned WWJ was unable to carry his daily newscast and a couple of other products in addition to his "Second Thoughts" commentaries. He's hopeful of finding another Detroit carrier... Mort Crim does WWJ swan song (Sat 2/11)

Airing: From 5 a.m. Friday through noon Saturday, the 3rd Annual Winter Survival Radiothon on WWJ-AM (950) from the new downtown YMCA at 1401 Broadway. Organizers hope to raise more than $500,000 to help needy people pay energy bills. Details at www.thawfund.org. Names and Faces (Mon 2/13)

WDET welcomes back volunteers for Spring Fundraiser

WDET-FM 101.9, Detroit Public Radio, is inviting volunteers to help answer phones for the station's upcoming spring pledge drive. WDET had long depended on volunteers during pledge drive periods until the fall of 2004, when a switch was made to have phone calls answered by a professional answering service. WDET's new general manager feels strongly about the role of volunteers in pubic broadcasting. "Volunteers infuse a unique energy into pledge drives and other station activities that, frankly, we've missed over the last 18 months at Detroit Public Radio," says WDET General Manager Michael Coleman. "We're looking forward to welcoming back many old friends and meeting lots of new ones during this spring's membership drive."

WDET's on-air portion of the spring pledge drive takes place Friday,
March 31 through Thursday, April 13. Individuals and groups who are
interested in volunteering can get more information and sign up by
calling 313-577-4550 or going to the station's website at wdetfm.org.

Crain's Detroit Business

Local television advertisers are re-evaluating their purchasing decisions in the wake of early results from “people meters,” a new digital rating system rolled out in the Detroit market on Jan. 5 by Nielsen Media Research. Niche channels or networks like ESPN2 and Bravo were the winners in the sweeps period that ended Feb. 1. Traditional broadcast channels saw combined ratings declines of 15 percent or more in many time slots and across many demographics — though they still have the most viewers... Meters a new yardstick (Mon 2/13)

Good deeds don't go unnoticed, especially if you're Gov. Jennifer Granholm and it's an election year. Granholm is appearing in radio ads for DTE Energy Co. and Consumers Energy Co., as part of an effort to raise awareness of assistance available to utility customers struggling with high heating bills ... So, is there someone secretly living in the WJR suite of offices high up in the golden tower of the Fisher Building? Arbitron Ratings seems to think so. A letter addressed to “Resident,” at WJR's address recently ended up on president and general manager Michael Fezzey's desk... Utilities: Using Granholm in ads not political (Mon 2/13)

Salem-Yinger Detroit-Cincy Swap Closes: The swap/sale that gives SALEM a second DETROIT AM has closed, with SALEM getting Religion WLQV-A/DETROIT from JON YINGER's CHRISTIAN BROADCASTING SYSTEM in exchange for Religion WTSJ-A and Talk WBOB-A/CINCINNATI plus $6.7 million. WBOB has been leased to DUSTY RHODES and BRIAN KAUFFMAN and is now airing an Oldies format as WDJO; YINGER has applied for new WCVX calls for WTSJ. JOHN PIERCE served as exclusive broker on both the sale and WBOB lease. (Mon 2/13)

Ann Arbor News:

Ann Arbor area Comcast cable viewers may have noticed that Channel 22, which carries programming from the University of Michigan, has a new look and name. The Michigan Channel, which debuted Jan. 30, builds on its predecessors, Michigan TV2 and UMTV, offering expanded coverage of events occurring on campus and adding new programming from national research universities. The channel will air the most current U-M fare in prime time, and recent "best of" material during the afternoon. Michigan Channel adds expanded coverage of U-M events, programs (Sun 2/12)

Radio & Records:

In September 2005 Salem agreed to trade WBOB-AM & WTSJ-AM/Cincinnati and pay $6.7 million for Christian Broadcasting System's Christian Talk & Teaching WLQV/Detroit. The deal has now closed, and as a result Salem gains a second AM in Detroit; it already owns WDTK in the market... Salem Closes On Detroit AM (Mon 2/13)

* Talk WKLZ-AM 1470 Kalamazoo will go silent on Monday February 20th. Station owner Fairfield Broadcasting must turn in the station's license to the FCC as part of the agreement that allowed what is now WQSN-AM 1660 to take to the airwaves in the expanded AM band.

* WVXA-FM 96.7 Rogers City has been granted its license to cover for an ERP increase from 42,000 watts @ 384 feet to 50,000 watts @ 531 feet

* WQUS-FM 103.1 Lapeer has been granted its license to cover for changes to its facility- along with a slight change to its location the station now broadcasts with 2,600 watts @ 341 feet instead of 3,000 watts @ 299 feet

A freak accident on Monday afternoon took down a 282-foot tower and temporarily left WNBY voiceless. But it could have been much worse. According to Michigan State Police reports, a 55-year-old Chelsea man was turning around in the WNBY parking lot when his snowmobile trailer caught a guy wire stabilizing the large steel structure. “It got the tower rocking, and it collapsed on the radio station,” confirmed a spokesman for the post. WNBY General Manager Travis Freeman confirmed there were three employees inside the structure when the tower came down on the building. All escaped without injury. The occupants of the vehicle which upset the tower likewise escaped unscathed... Accident knocks down Newberry radio tower down (Soo Evening News, Wed 2/15)

The Michigan Association of Broadcasters has announced the winners of the 2005 MAB Broadcast Excellence Awards. For the list, please click here.

Detroit Free Press:

Sometimes change is subtle -- like last spring, when Jerod Swallow, ice dance director at the Detroit Skating Club, noticed two fresh faces suddenly appearing on the folders of his students' training logs. "For years, kids always collected pictures of skaters like Michelle Kwan and Sasha Cohen," Swallow said. "But after the world championships last spring, Tanith and Ben were being pasted right next to them." Sometimes change is drastic... TORINO 2006: Sizzling Canton skaters dance into world's heart (Fri 2/17)

Detroit News:

If you're one of the few, the brave, the techno-geeky, and you own a high-definition radio, you know what that means. You may be in the forefront of the latest radio technology, but it's like having a crystal set in the early days of the 20th century. Your co-workers persist in thinking you're talking about satellite radio, you spin the dial desperately seeking HD-2 stations, and there are the inevitable little glitches of first-generation technology. One issue some listeners are having with the Boston Acoustics HD Receptor radio is that if they live in a distant suburb, it's sometimes harder to tune in to the Detroit stations than with a cheap old (analog) radio... Although HD is the latest in technology, there are a few hiccups (Thu 2/16)

Two veteran Flint broadcasters will be honored in separate ceremonies in the coming weeks. Les Root, a 50-year radio newsman known for his straightforward style, will be inducted into the Michigan Journalism Hall of Fame on April 22 in East Lansing. Jim Gaver, program director for WFUM (Channel 28) since its inception in 1980, has been chosen for the Michigan chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences' Silver Circle Award. He'll get it in a ceremony on Feb. 26 in Birmingham... Local broadcasters to receive statewide honors (Wed 2/15)

Dave Barber has battled mayors, weathered legal storms, feuded with his bosses and railed against anyone with whom he didn't agree. Come March 13, he will take on Providence, R.I. The colorful talk show host was expected this morning to announce his move to Providence's WPRO-AM on his WWCK-AM (1570) radio show... Dave Barber putting his mouth where opportunity is: Providence, R.I. (Fri 2/18)

The area’s biggest and best radiothon takes place on Friday at Oakland Mall in Troy as oldies WOMC-FM’s (104.3) Dick Purtan and Purtan’s people hold their annual live 16-hour radiothon to benefit the Salvation Army’s Bed and Bread Club. Every year, the community rallies behind Purtan and crew to help raise a record amount of money for single-day radio fundraisers. Last year’s tally of $1,723,088 will be hard to top — but that’s the goal. Don’t underestimate the power and loyalty of Purtan’s radio audience, sponsors, and co-workers — if anyone can set a new record this year, they can.

Friday’s event, from 6 a.m.-10 p.m., will include live performances by local musicians, comedians and local school kids. There’ll also be live interviews with local celebrities, sports figures, politicians, business leaders and metro area children who came up with creative ways to collect money for the drive. All the money raised will benefit the Salvation Army’s Bed and Bread program, which provides hot meals, shelter, and compassion to the homeless, hungry, and destitute in metro Detroit. As a result of Purtan’s efforts since 1988, the Army now provides more than 6,000 meals each day to the homeless in shelters and on the streets of metro Detroit — and every bit of the more than $10.5 million raised so far has remained in town as part of the local Bed and Bread program.

If you’ve never witnessed great radio in person, head to Oakland Mall on Friday. You can observe a great radio program do good work and make a donation — it’ll be time and money well spent. The event is a labor of love for Purtan and his co-workers and a great tribute to former cast members Gene Taylor and Mark Andrews, both of whom were big supporters of the Bed and Bread program and died too young.

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It must be radiothon month. Last weekend’s effort for St. Jude’s Hospital by country WYCD-FM (99.5) netted $802,812 — an impressive increase over last year’s tally of just above $500,000. “I’m absolutely thrilled with the listeners’ response,” says WYCD program director Tim Roberts. “You can see how much people in Detroit truly care, when they pour out their hearts for children like they have.” And sister station news WWJ-AM (950) spent 30 hours on Friday and Saturday raising money for The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW), which provides emergency winter energy assistance to households in 65 countries throughout Michigan. It’s the third year that WWJ has helped out.

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In a recent column, I mentioned that a possible reason for sports WDFN-AM (1130) falling behind sports WXYT-AM (1270) in the ratings was ’DFNs lack of focus on sports. A reader, Bob from Auburn Hills, challenged me on this, so I did some WDFN sampling this week — and unfortunately, I wasn’t surprised by what I heard. On Tuesday afternoon, WDFN afternoon host Mike Stone was discussing cybersex and self-gratification, while WXYT was discussing American skier Ted Ligety winning Olympic gold. Wednesday morning, WDFN was chatting about proper handwashing techniques. ’XYT was on the Pistons’ Darko Milicic trade. I was especially glad I didn’t have my young sons in the car with me during Stone’s cybersex bit. That’s not the kind of “sports” radio that should be on the air at 5 in the afternoon and why I won’t listen when my kids are present. While it may not be fair to compare stations by this type of unscientific sampling, I stand by my opinion — WXYT has become the stronger sports station because of better sports coverage.

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Carl Grapentine has been named as the play-by-play announcer at Michigan Stadium, replacing Howard King who has retired after holding the job since 1972. University of Michigan fans will recognize Grapentine as the voice of the Michigan Marching Band, a role he’ll keep in addition to calling plays via the stadium’s PA. Grapentine was once an on-air host at classical WQRS-FM (105.1) here in Detroit and is now the morning host at Chicago’s classical WFMT-FM (98.7). “I have loved being part of Michigan football for the last 36 years, but now to be the voice of Michigan Stadium is an unbelievable honor,” Grapentine says.

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It’s official — Oakland County just got a new radio station. The kids’ targeted WFDF-AM (910) is now licensed to Farmington Hills after being assigned to Flint since first signing on the air in May 1922. Station owner Disney moved the broadcast facilities from Genesee county to Monroe county last year to give the station coverage of the larger Detroit market.

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Set Your Dials: Hosts Tom Wilson and Heather Novak listen in on the pipe organ music of Leonard Leigh at 6 p.m. today on WMUZ-FM (103.5) ... Celeste Headlee will produce a new feature on local cultural events at 6:50 and 9:50 each Friday morning on WDET-FM (101.9) AM. She’ll also begin hosting a onehour weekly cultural-based program on WDET in April.

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Columnist Mike Austerman has covered radio for The Oakland Press since 2001.

Though they got married on the radio, with members of the media and WGRD staff milling about a banquet room in Van Andel Arena, Dallas Meyers and Lauralee Girodat were in a world of their own as they spoke their wedding vows. The glowing twosome, winners of WGRD's Get Married at Nickelback contest, exchanged rings with a few friends and family members looking on. "You may now kiss the bride," the minister said after pronouncing them husband and wife. Dallas, 26, of Grand Rapids, planted a big one on his new missus... Valentines exchange vows at show (Tue 2/14)

Have you listened lately to WBFX-FM (101.3, The Fox)? On Wednesday, the classic-rock station made some adjustments in its format, hoping to attract some new listeners. According to Jack Lawson, program director at The Fox, the station made some "format enhancements" by adding songs from the 1980s and '90s as well as new releases from long-established music acts... Broadcast notes (Sun 2/19)

In local radio circles, he's known simply as WLAV morning show host Kevin Matthews' son. But in music industry circles, he's blazing a trail of his own as Trevor Menear. Could this 21-year-old Chicago guitarist be on the cusp of something big? With extraordinary guitar work and a voice that -- like one-time wunderkind Jonny Lang -- belies his age, Menear deftly straddles the lines between blues, rock and jazz on his invigorating and soulful original songs... Talented Menear has local-radio ties (Sun 2/19)

Rock WDTW-FM 106.7 The Drive along with The Rainbow Connection and Emagine Theatres in Canton, 39535 Ford Road in Canton, will present the Movies for Wishes 2006 Movie Marathon beginning at 10 AM on Friday February 24th. The event will help generate money for The Rainbow Connection to help grant wishes of terminally ill children in the Detroit area. The Movies for Wishes Marathon 2006 will run for 24 straight hours.

Listeners can help raise money by gathering pledges for The Rainbow Connection and join 106.7 The Drive for 24 hours of the latest movie releases, unlimited popcorn and pop, dinner on Friday, breakfast on Saturday and a chance to win prizes for the most pledges collected. For details on how to participate, call The Rainbow Connection at (248) 601-9474, ext. 11. The station is asking for you to help them help some very special kids.

Detroit Free Press:

On deck: From 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday, live from Oakland Mall, the 19th Annual WOMC-FM (104.3) Dick Purtan Radiothon to benefit the Salvation Army's Bed and Bread Program. Donations can be made at www.womc.com or by calling 248-307-1043 during the show. Donors who pledge $120 per year ($10 per month) become members of the Bed and Bread Club... Names and Faces (Mon 2/20)

Flint Journal:

Coming soon to a TV near you: another blue screen. ABC affiliate WJRT (Channel 12) has received federal approval to block most duplicate programming from WXYZ (Channel 7), Detroit's ABC station, on the Comcast and Charter Communications cable systems in Genesee County. The maneuver is known as a nonduplication agreement. It blocks network shows carried on WXYZ, such as "Lost" and "Desperate Housewives," leaving subscribers with only one option for ABC programs - WJRT. It does not affect local shows, including newscasts, and most syndicated programming carried by the Detroit station... Channel 12 forcing cable systems to block WXYZ (Sat 2/18)

* The FCC has granted the approval for the transfer of ABC-owned stations WJR-AM 760, WDRQ-FM 93.1, and WDVD-fM 96.3 Detroit to a holding company titled 'Radio License Holding I, LLC as part of the previously announced transaction that will see Citadel become the new owner of the stations pending further government review and closing.

* Granted John R. Powley a construction permit for a new LPTV station to be licensed to St. Ignace on channel 26 as W26DG.

Oldies WOMC-FM 104.3 and The Salvation Army in metro Detroit will join forces again this year, hoping to break last year's one-day fundraising efforts where Dick Purtan, WOMC listeners and sponsors helped raise over $1,723,088 in 16 hours to feed and shelter Detroit's homeless and hungry. Since 1988, the Dick Purtan Radiothon has raised more than $10.5 million for the Bed and Bread Program.

This all-day event includes live performances by local musicians, comedians and local schools. Plus, live interviews with well-known celebrities, sports figures, politicians, business leaders and metro area children who came up with creative ways to collect money on behalf of their classrooms or schools.

WHERE: WOMC'S Dick Purtan & Purtan's People will broadcast live on Friday, February 24, 2006 from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. in the center court of the Oakland Mall in Troy, Michigan.

WHEN: Friday, February 24, 2006, 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.

CHARITY: Donations benefit The Salvation Army Bed and Bread Program.
The Salvation Army Bed and Bread Program provides hot meals, shelter and compassion to the homeless, hungry and destitute in Detroit. Over 7,000 meals are served a day to the homeless in the shelters and on the streets of metro Detroit. Currently 4 different trucks are used to deliver these meals. All of the money raised during this event stays in the Detroit area and every penny goes to the program - none of this money goes to administrative costs.

Although any monetary donation is welcome, folks are encouraged to become members of the Bread and Bread Club by donating $120 - enough to feed one person for an entire year. Kick in $240 or more and you'll receive a bobblebody featuring co-host Big Al Muskavito. Michigan residents are eligible for an extra tax credit on their donations too!

For the first time, the inspiring sights and sounds of the February 11th Sphinx Competition Finals Concert are being produced by Detroit Public Television in high definition widescreen television for a broadcast special scheduled to air on at 10 p.m. February 27th on WTVS Channel 56 and HD digital channel 56.1. The nationally-acclaimed competition for young African American and Latino classical music string players culminated in The Finals Concert at the Max M. Fisher Music Center in Detroit, where the top three finalists of the Senior Division competed, accompanied by the Sphinx Chamber Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Chelsea Tipton II.

The 9th Annual Sphinx Competition Finals Concert, a one-hour broadcast special, features six times greater picture clarity than an analog production, along with brilliant sound. “Viewers will be able to see and hear the entire orchestra more clearly,” said Jeff Forster, Detroit Public TV vice president of production. “We used eight cameras, including one in the orchestra and one suspended above the audience. The microphone placement was superb.”

In addition to the first-ever HD broadcast of the Sphinx Finals Concert, the program is also scheduled to air on February 26 at noon on 90.9 WRCJ-FM, a listener supported classical and jazz radio station operated by Detroit Public Television and licensed to Detroit Public Schools.

WMXD to present a 'red carpet screening for new Steve Harvey movie

Adult Urban WMXD-FM, Mix 92.3, along with the “King of Comedy”, morning show host Steve Harvey, will present a red carpet premiere screening of Steve Harvey's newest film project, Don't Trip He Ain't Through With Me Yet! The station is inviting the city of Detroit to laugh, dress up, and attend a premiere screening that is sure to leave you refreshed as well as thrilled. In his first live performance since The Original Kings of Comedy, he is cleaning up his act for church folk. This once in a lifetime performance was recorded at the Mega Fest Conference, hosted by Bishop T.D. Jakes, in Atlanta, Georgia and is designed with the Christian audience in mind.

Harvey will open up his new movie to the Detroit metro area “Hollywood style” starting at 6:30pm on Tuesday, March 14, 2006, at AMC Star Southfield 20 Theater (formerly Star Theatre Southfield). It's an evening of glamour and glitz, lights, camera and action. You can expect a crowd of listeners, VIP guests, and more.

Over 700 guests will have an opportunity to see the movie prior to its release on Friday, March 17th. The movie screening is free; however, listeners must tune into Mix 92.3 to win passes for this exclusive advance movie screening or visit any of its sponsor locations to pick up movie passes. For more information, visit www.mix923fm.com or www.steveharvey.com.

Detroit News:

The funniest thing happened when U.S. Olympic ice dancers and Canton Township residents Tanith Belbin and Ben Agosto finished their skate during Sunday's competition. The pair was sitting on a bench waiting for their marks when Belbin looked into the camera and said, "Hi, Drew and Mike! Hi, Grandma!" Apparently Belbin and Agosto are huge fans of "Drew & Mike," WRIF-FM's (101.1) top-rated morning show and have been listening to podcasts of the show in Torino. Last week, Belbin sent an e-mail out of the blue to say hi to the radio jocks. It's now turned into a full-fledged pen-pal situation, culminating in Belbin, giving an Olympic shout-out to the pair on live international TV... Olympic duo stun 'Drew & Mike' (Tue 2/21)

What is the most overplayed song on the radio right now? I'd put my vote in for "Go Your Own Way" by Fleetwood Mac. Think about it, this song gets airplay across several formats; classic rock, adult contemporary and oldies. If it wasn't bad enough that oldies stations like WOMC-FM (104.3) have moved away from the early '60s and more deeply in to the '70s (forget the '50s, that decade doesn't exist on nonsatellite radio), now stations like Windsor's CKWW-AM (580) that used to play big band/pop standards, have dumped a lot of the older music in favor of hitmakers from the '70s like Fleetwood Mac and John Denver... Songs from '70s, '80s are new oldies (Thu 2/23)

Detroit Free Press:

Fox TV unveiled My Network TV on Wednesday. It's a new programming service for stations being orphaned in September by not being able to align with the new CW after the UPN and the WB networks go away. Most likely Detroit landing place? WDWB-TV (Channel 20). "It's one of the options," Channel 20 chief Sarah Norat-Phillips said Wednesday... Names and Faces (Thu 2/23)

Notes from WDET-FM

* WDET Introduces New Weekly Cultural Spotlight: The new feature has been will air every Friday during Morning Edition at 6:50am and 9:50am. Celeste Headlee, WDET's arts and culture reporter, will produce the feature for each Friday's broadcast. Listeners can expect to hear information and interviews about important cultural events taking place in metropolitan Detroit each week. As a companion to the on-air feature, a more detailed list of area events will be available on the WDET website at wdetfm.org. "Adding this new feature to one of our most popular programs gives us a greater opportunity to serve the community," said Allen Mazurek, WDET program director. "We're glad to be able to showcase the wealth of important cultural events going on in Detroit."

This new weekly feature is the first installment of WDET's commitment to expand local arts and culture coverage. Beginning in April, WDET will begin airing a one-hour weekly cultural affairs program hosted by Celeste Headlee that will focus on events and issues and feature interviews, discussions and perspectives with area cultural leaders and organizations. It will be paired with another one-hour weekly live music and performance program produced by Jon Moshier, host of "in sound," that will feature performances by local, national and international artists. Cultural organizations are encouraged to submit information about their events to the WDET via email at event@wdetfm.org.

* WDET'S Klinefelter and Headlee recognized by Michigan Association of Broadcasters: WDET has announced that two staff reporters have been honored by the Michigan Association of Broadcasters (MAB). Quinn Klinefelter won the MAB's "Best Feature" award for "Danica" - a profile of celebrated female Indy Car driver Danica Patrick. Celeste Headlee received a MAB merit award in the "Series" category for her piece, "People Mover" - a five-part series examining the public art at each of Detroit's People Mover stations.

Headlee was also selected as one of this year's recipients of the USC Annenberg/Getty Arts Jounalism Fellowship Program. Only six journalists from around the world are selected, and WDET's Celeste Headlee is the only broadcast journalist named in this year's group. Funded by a grant from the J. Paul Getty Trust, the USC Annenberg/Getty Arts Fellowship, now in its fifth year, seeks to establish a new standard of excellence in arts and culture coverage. The program's philosophy is guided by a core belief in first-hand encounters with artists, arts administrators and journalism colleagues.

"These are great honors for both the reporters and our entire news department," said Joan Silvi, WDET News Director. "It fortifies our commitment to work hard and serve the Detroit community with the best possible local news coverage."

Bon Jovi Grand Prize Winner Selected: BON JOVI, in association with AEG LIVE, XM SATELLITE RADIO, and WDVD/DETROIT, MI today announced the JODY RAFFOUL BAND as the winner of BON JOVI'S "HAVE A NICE GIG" competition. The DETROIT band was selected by JON BON JOVI and RICHIE SAMBORA as the Grand Prize Winners for a demo deal and opening slot for BON JOVI's GIANTS STADIUM concert this summer.

Those who read the radio column in the Sunday Daily Oakland Press are probably aware that I have always felt that radio gives far more to television than TV gives to radio. When Dick Purtan hosted the 19th annual Salvation Army Radiothon live from the Oakland Mall on Friday, they invited ALL of the local TV reporters. Each were given an enormous amount of air-time. Each TV station did brief cut-ins from the broadcast at the mall throughout the day, which was good. Too short, but certainly appreciated by the hard working staff from oldies WOMC-FM (104.3) and the Salvation Army's Bed & Bread Fund.

What was embarrassing is the fact that when the Radiothon ended with a huge finale and a celebration for raising a staggering $1,808,440 in one day to help Detroit's under-privileged, NO local TV station felt it was important enough to report the GOOD news with a field reporter. Shameful. FOX 2 (WJBK-TV) ran less than 30 seconds of “b-roll” from the big finish, but no live shot. Over five minutes of that same newscast was devoted to a porno video made by Kid Rock. Sad.

Even worse was the omission of both WDIV-TV (Local 4) and WXYZ-TV Channel 7, neither of which had even a camera there for the amazing finish of the largest amount of money ever raised by a single radio station in the history of the industry! Channel 7 did run a few clips from their mid-day visit for 38 seconds. It is simply unfair for these TV folks to get so much showcasing on the radio, and then give back so little in return. This is especially bad when it's realized that Dick Purtan's daughter JoAnn is an excellent reporter for Channel 7. His son-in-law, Neil Goldstein, is the news director at Local 4 so he splurged for 49 seconds of voice-over b-roll. Unbelievable!

As a lover of radio, I say to the AM and FM community, stop sucking up to the tube, until they learn how to return the favor. Meanwhile, we in the newspaper business will sincerely congratulate Dick Purtan and Purtan's People on a job well done.

On Friday February 24th, the staff at Oldies WOMC-FM 104.3 in Detroit helped raise $1,808,440 for the Salvation Army's Bed and Bread Club thanks to the efforts of morning man Dick Purtan and Purtan's People. The final 30 minutes of the 16-hour Radiothon netted $100,000 alone thanks to a last-minute anonymous donor who kicked in a $50,000 match if $50,000 could be raised in the final 30 minutes. With $5,000 kicked in by Purtan himself (on top of the $20,000 he donated earlier) and a last-second pledge to make up the difference by Pistons/Palace Entertainment CEO Tom Wilson, that $50,000 goal was reached right at 10PM as the event wrapped up. The 9-10 PM hour was an awesome 60 minutes of radio.

The $1.8 million is an $85,000 increase over last year's total - and is believed to be the largest single-day radio fundraiser anywhere in the country. This year marked the 19th in a row that Purtan and crew have raised money for the Bed and Bread Club; they've helped raise an amazing $12.3 million for this truly local program. Every dollar that has been raised over these 19 years has gone towards feeding and sheltering desperate people solely in Metro Detroit. Every dime has gone towards food and shelter - none of the money is spent on administrative costs. The program currently supports the feeding of nearly 8,700 people and sheltering 1,700 every day!

The excitement of the final push resulted in a standing ovation from the crowd watching live at Oakland Mall - you could see that Purtan and his crew really feed off the positive vibes from the audience and the day-long parade of guests, both celebrity and non-celebrity. You could see in the faces of the people that pull all this together how much this event means to them by their reactions when the final tally was announced.

Not enough credit can be given to everyone that takes part in what I believe is local radio's ultimate shining moment. Congratulations to everyone on yet another job well done!

Your traveling radio reporter spent time last week at the Country Radio Seminar in Nashville, an event that gives broadcasters who embrace “America’s Music” unprecedented contact with country artists, record executives and promo folks. Locally, country WYCD-FM (99.5) was represented by program director Tim Roberts and music director Ron Chatman. Which reminds me that a couple of years ago, I saw Dr. Don at the seminar sporting a yellow Tshirt that read “Hire me” across his chest. Someone apparently paid attention, as he’s now hosting WYCD’s morning drive show along with Bob Schuman and newcomers Rachel Hunter and Steve Grunwald. Country music is enjoying a resurgence right now — and the new acts look more like pop and rock stars with longer hair, earrings and facial stubble. Artists like Keith Urban, Clay Walker — who’s still clean cut — Dierks Bentley and rookie Keith Anderson had many women at the seminar swooning.

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Since the University of Michigan has yet to select a new radio partner for the 2006 football and basketball season, which local AM or FM station(s) do you feel would serve fans best? And, just as important, which announcers should call the games? My personal favorites are Frank Beckmann, Jim Brandstatter and Steve Courtney for the pigskin and Larry Henry for the roundball. What do you think? Send me an e-mail and we’ll report the results — and share them with the U-M.

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Dick Purtan is probably still sleeping after his marathon 16-hour radiothon benefiting the Salvation Army Bed and Bread Fund on Friday. Colleague Mike Austerman and I both stopped by the Oakland Mall on Friday to donate to the cause. The crowds were incredible, as Detroit’s No. 1 radio philanthropist and his cast of dozens raised an unbelievable, over-the-top $1,808,440 in a one-day effort. Everyone who contributed to this annual event is to be congratulated. Oldies WOMC-FM (104.3) should be proud of the power they have (not just in their wattage) in our community; promotions manager Kassie Kretzschmar also must be pleased.

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And how about a hardy Tip o’ the Hat to all the radio stations helping in the efforts to save the Detroit Zoo? Pop WDVD-FM (96.3) morning hosts Blaine and Lisa got Detroit councilwoman Barbara Rose Collins on the phone to “face the music.” After failing to answer the pair’s well-phrased questions, Collins hung up on the pair. Which perfectly illustrates how we got in this mess.

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Just Askin’: What was former Tic-Tac poet Mr. Positive doing on Alan Almond’s “Pillow Talk” show on soft rock WNIC-FM (100.3) last week? And will Tic-Tac successor Big Boy at hits WKQI-FM (95.5) add the rhyming reader to his show?

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A reader e-mailed me recently wondering when we’ll be listing the HD formats in our Radio Guide, both the one in the paper and the ones that I’ve been publishing for the past 34 years. Well, mine will be happening very soon, as more stations provide — we hope — unique new formats on their “side-channel” since high-definition FM stations can have two stations, FM-1 (the regular broadcast) and FM-2, on the same frequency. Recently, General Motors announced it will equip all of its cars with On-Star and XM Satellite Radio hardware. The HD Radio Alliance needs to get that type of support from GM and the other automakers so this new technology can become successful and not turn out to be the bust that, sadly, AM-Stereo was.

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If you’re a fan of those hard-to-find oldies, check out the Dr. Doo Wop Show on talk-and-oldies WPON-AM (1460) and streaming online at www.wpon.com. From 5-7 p.m. Wednesdays, Dr. Roman Franklin and Benny of the Benny and the Jets Band, really pour their hearts into this show, and it’s worth a listen.

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In a statement sent to the media this month, longtime public radio host and programmer Judy Adams tersely wrote: “I voluntarily retired my position as program director with Wayne State University and WDET-FM (101.9) effective Dec. 12, 2005. Any statements or reports to the contrary are not accurate. I will be making no further comments concerning my former employment at Wayne State University and WDET.” Numerous supporters and former supporters of this NPR station have had doubts about the word “voluntarily.”

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Mark your calendar now for another comedian Steve Harvey visit to Detroit on March 14, presented by urban/pop WMXD-FM (92.3). The station is presenting a special premiere of Harvey’s newest film, “Don’t Trip, He Ain’t Through With Me Yet,” at the AMC Star 20 Theatre in Southfield; win tickets by listening to the Mix. Could be an evening to remember.

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Set Your Dials: Fred Astaire performs the music of Gershwin at 6 p.m. tonight on “Somewhere in Time” on WMUZ-FM (103.5).

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Art Vuolo has published the Radio Guide for more than 30 years and runs Vuolovideo.com.

In the country music industry, the Country Radio Seminar just can't be beat. Last week, the annual convention celebrated its 37th anniversary, drawing radio professionals from all over to the country-music capital for three days of business-related workshops and showcases by established acts and newcomers... Big names in country fire up radio convention (Tue 2/21)

The Funny Radio Book

The Radio Funny Book is a collection of hundreds of funny radio stories, on the air and behind the scenes. The nationally circulated "Inside Radio" fax by Tom Taylor described the book as containing decades of funny radio stories. The "Radio World" editor, Paul McLane, told his readers, "Bob Doll is droll. His book offers readers a pleasant read about the lighter side of radio. It includes an announcder test and 'man on the street' flashbacks. It's $13.95 plus $4.59 s/h from bbotw.com. Doll spent 10 yewars of his 55 year radio career is owner-operator of WAOP AM/FM Otsego, Michigan. He can be reached now at bobar@sbcglobal.net.

If you're looking for a typical morning radio show that's heavy with jokes, lame banter and the same old pop tunes played over and over again, then don't look to Martin Bandyke, the new morning host on Ann Arbor radio station 107.1 FM. He's just not that kind of guy. On Bandyke's program, you'd have a better chance hearing music from acts such as Richard Thompson, Ray Davies, Neil Young, Sarah Harmer and Duncan Sheik than the latest from Britney Spears. "We will do our utmost not to insult the intelligence of our listeners, and fight inanity on the air,'' Bandyke vowed recently, after his first week on the job... Fighting on-air inanity (Mon 2/27)

Grammy winner Bolcom to be featured on WQKL Ann Arbor

Adult Alternative WQKL-FM 107.1 Ann Arbor morning host Martin Bandyke will interview Ann Arbor and University of Michigan composer William Bolcom next Tuesday, Feb. 28 at 8am. Bolcom will be speaking about the four Grammy Awards he recently won for the recording of his epic composition "Songs of Innocence and of Experience," released on the Naxos label. The Martin Bandyke Morning Program is heard weekdays from 6-10am on Ann Arbor's 107one.

OLDIES 104.3 WOMC and The Salvation Army in metro Detroit joined forces again this year setting another one-day, national radio fundraising record as WOMC listeners and sponsors helped raise $1,808,440 in 16 hours to feed and shelter Detroit's homeless and hungry. Last year's total was $1,723,088.

The 19th Annual Dick Purtan Radiothon was broadcast live on Friday, February 24, from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the Oakland Mall in Troy, Michigan. Donations benefited The Salvation Army Bed and Bread Program which provides hot meals, shelter and counseling to the homeless, hungry and destitute in Detroit. An average of 7,000 meals are served each day to those in need via the Bed & Bread trucks which make stops in metro Detroit's most depressed areas. In addition, 1,700 men, women and children receive shelter every night.

“This community never ceases to amaze me,” says Purtan. “To think that after answering the call to help support victims of Katrina, that the people of metro Detroit would donate in record numbers and surpass last year's Radiothon total is simply overwhelming. We can all feel a tremendous amount of satisfaction knowing that the money raised will help thousands of needy people not just today, but every single day of for the next year. It's a true testament to the caring spirit of the people of Detroit and Southeastern Michigan.”

This all-day event included Dick Purtan and Purtan's People interviewing celebrities, sports figures, comedians, political and business leaders, and metro area children who organized creative ways to collect money on behalf of their classrooms or schools.

“WOMC is proud of our longstanding relationship with The Salvation Army and feel privileged to be able to make a difference in the city of Detroit,” says Kevin Murphy, WOMC Senior Vice President/General Manager. “We know that our success is solely based on the incredible support we receive from our loyal listeners and valued clients to whom we are eternally grateful.”

Since 1988, the Dick Purtan Radiothon has raised more than $12,031,528 million for the Bed and Bread Program, including this year's record total of over $1.8 million.

Riff2 celebrates The Metro Times Blowout with a “Blowout” weekend

In honor of this weekend's “Metro Times Blowout,” Hamtramck's huge local music festival, WRIF's HD channel, Riff 2, will play music from Blowout Artists all weekend long. The “Blowout Weekend” will begin Friday, March 3rd at 8:00 a.m. and continue all weekend through Sunday night. RIFF2 will feature music from local favorites like: Broadzilla, The Hard Lessons, The Sights, Paper Street Saints, Grande Nationals, Gore Gore Girls and more.

“With Hamtramck being the musical epicenter for the weekend, we figured we should showcase some of the great local talent that Detroit has to offer,” said RIFF2's Mark Pennington. “The RIFF2 staff is loading up on Paczkis in celebration of this event.”

101 WRIF debuted RIFF2, a special HD Radio side channel, at the end of July 2005 with the unveiling of the HD radio broadcast. Both stations transmit a digital signal that provides CD quality sound and has the ability to display more text information than a traditional radio. Fans can listen to RIFF2 through special HD radio receivers available in tabletop and auto receiver models now or by simply logging on to www.riff2.com.

RIFF 2 is already making its mark with a special “made in Detroit" mix of alternative and indie rock, hip hop, punk and the best from today's Detroit music scene. By embracing local and unsigned bands RIFF2 breaks the rules of traditional radio and offers a true alternative music choice. WRIF2 is a new execution of the WRIF tradition that the next generation of Detroit music lovers can grow up with and will look to for “their” music.